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DEC 2025

VOL. 25 | ISSUE 8

DIGITAL NEWSLETTER Celebrating students’ learning and achievement with the school community

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Welcome

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Thank You 2025! Art Business Coding/ Computer Science English Engineering Gaeilge Graphics History Home Economics LCVP Modern Foreign Languages Music PE Science SPHE T4 SEN/HUB Wellbeing Charity Work Class Winners Clubs and Socs. Extra-Curricular

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Welcome to the 8th edition of our Digital Newsletter and the last of 2025. It’s been a very busy term with so many highlights to speak of. As we come close to the end of 2025 I want to take this opportunity to thank the whole school community for all your hard work, support and energy over the last term. This term has been filled with highlights both inside and outside the classroom. From outstanding work across many subject areas such as Art, Science, Engineering, Music, Languages, and Home Economics, to engaging initiatives like Science Week, Stand Up Awareness Week, Erasmus+ exchanges, PBL, and our LCVP Christmas Market, our students have embraced every opportunity offered to them. Their achievements on the sporting field, through clubs and societies, and in extra-curricular competitions are a source of great pride for us all. A particular strength of this term has been the strong emphasis on wellbeing, inclusion, and community. Initiatives led through SPHE, Wellbeing, SEN/Hub activities, charity fundraising such as Movember, and events that promote kindness, resilience, and belonging reflect the values we strive to embed in daily school life. Our Movember campaign was a standout with €13,117 fundraised in total. I would like to sincerely thank our staff for their dedication, creativity, and care in supporting students throughout a demanding term. Thank you also to parent/carers for your continued support and engagement, and to our students. As we now take a well-earned break, I hope the Christmas period brings some well-deserved rest and time with loved ones.. On behalf of the entire school community, I would like to wish you a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year. We look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for the new term in 2026. Eoin Shinners Principal

DEC 2025

VOL. 25 | ISSUE 8

THANK YOU 2025 🌟

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ART 🎨 For this year’s Stand Up Awareness Week, each of the art teachers integrated a lesson about the iconic Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo. Students learned about Kahlo’s work, inspired by challenging norms and how it ties into expressing your identity. Each student created a self portrait inspired by Kahlo. Here are some examples!! IN THIS ISSUE:

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ART 🎨 This term, 5th year Art students completed their sculpture and reduction printing project. The theme of the work was resilience. The project tasked students with choosing an animal which they felt represented their own resilience and creating a headpiece based on this animal. They were then tasked with photographing themselves wearing the headpiece and using these images as primary sources for Lino print designs. Here are some examples:

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BUSINESS 🗂

INOur THIS2nd ISSUE: year business students recently took part in a Junior Achievement programme delivered by volunteers from Northern Trust. The programme focused on financial literacy, helping students to understand the value of money, budgeting, saving, and making informed financial decisions which will benefit them greatly in the future. Well done to all!

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CODING/COMPUTER SCIENCE 🖥 Easter Egg Alert! Type 67 into a Google search for a little surprise!!

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Leaving Cert Coursework December is coursework month for our sixth years! This year they have been tasked with investigating how to collect data from forest environments. Students must: 1. Build an embedded system using sensors to collect the data. 2. Create a model to look at how the data is affected by changes in environment / disasters.

VEX Code Free for Dec! The paid gold version of the robotics platform we use in school is free for December. Go to vr.vex.com to get started. You can learn how to use robots and AI to clean the environment and explore strange new worlds.

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ENGLISH 🎭 On Tuesday the 2nd of December, Janette's 3rd year English class, had a very unusual experience. Janette had applied to have a renowned dramatist to visit the school earlier this year. We were one of twelve schools successful with the application.

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Catherine Sheridan was assigned to our school. She is a Youth Theatre Director and Drama consultant with the Department of Education and Youth Affairs. She came to our school for the day and along with Janette, facilitated "Play In A Day". We had team bonding games, did improvisations, used costumes and props. We learned about stage directions, gestures and how to use the space. It was phenomenal, we left our seats and ipads for the day, and worked with our imagination, at our communication skills and group work. 7

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ENGINEERING 󰠸 -

In November, I took part in the Mini Engineering Programme at Analog Devices with thirty other girls from eight different schools in Limerick. The three-day event gave us a chance to explore a wide range of engineering fields through talks, workshops, panel discussions and a tour of the campus. We heard from engineers working in cybersecurity, machine learning, robotics, electrical engineering, and fabrication engineering. They told us about their studies, career paths, and some really interesting projects they are working on.

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During the workshops, we built and programmed circuits using Arduino boards and TinkerCAD, completed hands-on science activities, and tried simple coding with robots. We also visited The Catalyst, where we saw advanced technology such as 3D printers, automated vehicles, and personalised healthcare systems. The programme finished with a Women in Engineering panel where several speakers shared their career journeys, the challenges they faced, and advice for young women interested in engineering. It was a really fun and inspiring experience that showed how broad and exciting engineering can be. Written by Yanyi Zhuo (4 Deirdre)

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ENGINEERING 󰠸 A Stryker trip for Transition year students took place on Monday, November 18th. During the visit, students toured Stryker’s “Recon” processes and observed the complete manufacturing journey of the Triathlon Knee System, the company’s flagship product. The tour included stops in the INFoundry/Casting, THIS ISSUE: Machining and Finishing, Passivation, and Packaging areas.

Students had the opportunity to see a wide range of manufacturing technologies, from manual operations and older machines (20+ years old) to modern 5-axis CNC machines, ABB robotic linishers and polishing systems, and advanced cleanliness and quality procedures. This field trip provided a valuable educational experience in engineering, manufacturing, and medical technology.

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GAEILGE ☘ Chuaigh na daltaí ón séú bliain go dtí Glór in Inis ar an 20ú Samhain chun dráma ‘Caith Amach É’ a fheiceáil. Bheinn gach duine sult as on ócáid.

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An idirbhliain Chruthaigh cuid de na daltaí san idirbhliain alt irise ag cur síos ar a dtaithí oibre

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GRAPHICS 󰜺 -

It has been a busy and productive term in Graphics, with students across all year groups making great progress and developing both key drawing and visual skills. First year students took part in a Taster Programme where they were introduced to the basics of Graphics. They learned how to use drawing equipment correctly and focused on topics such as angles, basic constructions, and drawing triangles and polygons. These activities helped students build confidence and accuracy while laying a strong foundation for future work in the subject.

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Second Year students moved on to more challenging topics, including surface developments and isometric drawing. These areas helped students improve their spatial awareness and understanding of how 3D objects can be represented on paper. There was a clear improvement in students’ accuracy and presentation as the term went on.

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HISTORY 🗽 First year students in class 1 Kavanagh created their own interpretations of Medieval Castles, using their artistic skills and knowledge of what we have studied this term. To the right is a IN THIS ISSUE: selection of work from students: Anna, Cillian, Donnacadh, Faye, Hallie, Marcel, Molly, Nadia, Saoirse and Vivaan.

Well done everyone! 🏰 12

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HOME ECONOMICS 🍴 2nd Year Home Economics Culinary Exam Well done to all 2nd year students who participated in their practical exam worth 30% of their Nollaig assessment. Students demonstrated a range of culinary skills by preparing, cooking, and serving a range of savoury dishes suitable for a teenager. Students were supported and marked by celebrity chef Eoin Sheehan who was seriously impressed with the high level of skill that was demonstrated by these young students. Well done everyone 🥳

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LCVP 5th Year LCVP students ran a very successful Christmas Market on Thursday 11th December in the Sports Hall. There were over thirty stalls selling everything from baked goods to hot chocolate, raffles, photography, archery, computer games, darts, books, popcorn, candy canes and much much more!

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All year groups got to spend a class period enjoying the festive atmosphere with Christmas songs being played on the speakers. It was a very enjoyable day which the whole school got to experience! 🎄

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MFL 󰏃 󰎼 󰎲 -

The Italian students in first and second year have been very busy with developing their knowledge for their upcoming projects and exams. The first year class has produced video animations integrating creativity, their knowledge of vocabulary, and structures of school equipment. They have also shown fantastic progress in enhancing their pronunciation and interaction skills. Bravissimi!

The second Year Italian class has been busy learning about and contrasting the Italian school system with the Irish school system creating engaging and informative presentations.

The third year Spanish classes Corrib and Nore have been busy with revision for their upcoming mocks and have been learning about various IN THIS ISSUE: Spanish-speaking holiday destinations and local culture through authentic texts.

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MFL 󰏃 󰎼 󰎲 ERASMUS + We welcomed our students from IES Frances Ribalta from Castellón, Spain for a week, where they stayed with host families. We had a great week with a fantastic variety of activities including an Irish Dancing and Language Workshop, a trip to the Cliffs of Moher and a fantastic Idiom Workshop. A fantastic week which was really successful and we are looking forward to more upcoming exchanges. Thank you to all involved, and to families for hosting the students!

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MUSIC 🎶 A Huge congratulations to second year music student AJ McGuane on his fantastic solo performance of ‘We’re Walking in the Air’ from The Snowman in UCH. AJ was chosen to sing with the University Orchestra on November 20th and produced a stunning performance to a packed theatre. Well done, AJ! The Snowman - Walking In The Air

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First year music classes started to work in groups to create their own arrangements of pieces of music using a variety of instruments.

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PE 󰝋

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During this term, our Transition Year PE students were awarded the opportunity to attend the driving range and Padel LK on a rotational basis. Every week a group went to either activity and got to try and test their new found skills. Well done and thanks to everyone involved!

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SCIENCE 🧬 Science Week 2025! 🔥

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LETSS Science Week 2025 was held from November 10th -14th and was a huge success. Various events and activities were held throughout the week. The lunchtime experiment workshops were a big hit where students had the opportunity to make oobleck, light their hands on fire with methane bubbles and some of the TYs put on an amazing Magic Show.

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SCIENCE 🧬 Science Week 2025! 🔥 There were also lots of competitions where prizes were up for grabs, such as riddles of the day, poster competitions, scavenger hunts and even a Murder Mystery. Science teacher Eamonn and his TY students organised a fantastic Retro Fair where old tech devices and consoles were on display, some of them still worked so students got to play a few vintage video games. The 2nd years got treated to a Science Quiz on the Thursday, well done to Isacc, AJ, and Alex INwho THISwere ISSUE: the victorious team. Well done to everyone involved.

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SPHE 🌐 Rising Minds- A Lust for Life First Year SPHE students are participating in a pilot programme titled ‘Rising Minds – A Lust for Life’, as part of their SPHE curriculum this term. This new programme aims to equip students with practical skills and tools to help them navigate the complexities of life by building emotional literacy, empathy, self-compassion and communication. IN THIS ISSUE: Talk on Resilience & Emotional Wellbeing Laura Gallagher from Mymind.org came to talk to Sixth Yrs about how to be resilient when facing the challenges of life and how to nurture their emotional wellbeing. A really important topic for our Leaving Certificate students as they navigate the complexities and challenges of their final year in Secondary School, and learn skills which they can take with them throughout their adult life.

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T4 🪜 -

There has been a big emphasis on life skills this term and our students have been very busy. Congratulations to our Construction Students who completed their Safe Pass Certificate within the school, this is an essential first step for anyone who wishes to pursue a career in the Construction Industry. Our LCA class also got their hands dirty when they formed and poured a reinforced concrete slab.

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T4 🪜 -

Second Year students focused on more advanced practical projects that built on their previous experience. A key project this term was the Mirror/Coat Hanger, where students placed a strong emphasis on the design process. They developed their ideas through sketches and planning before bringing their designs to life in the workshop. This project helped students improve accuracy, craftsmanship, and independence. IN THIS ISSUE:

In the lead-up to Christmas, students also created decorations using the scroll saw, which allowed them to refine their cutting skills and attention to detail. The finished pieces demonstrated excellent creativity and care, and many students took great pride in their work.

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SEN/HUB 🧩 The Hub is a busy place where our talented students hone their life skills, and this term was no different. Here are some shots of our hardworking young people baking, cooking and even composting!! ♻♻

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SEN/HUB 🧩

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In November we held our annual Hub Blitz where students from LETSS welcomed students from John the Baptist Community School, Hospital for a fun-filled day of activities!

Christmas arrived in the Hub on the 2nd of December. With the help of some talented teens, the festive spirit was sprinkled around the Hub and GP area.

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WELLBEING Spill the Jazmyn Tea - The Proud Together and LETSS Wellbeing Committee facilitated an informative talk with Lisa Daly, Chairperson of Limerick Pride this November.

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LETSS Remember Our Loved Ones - In November we added the names of loved ones we wanted to remember to a star on our remembrance wall. A truly heartwarming gesture!

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WELLBEING LETSS Crochet Circle meets every week on Thursdays to give a chance to create and chat in a calm environment.

LETSS Self Awareness Week We reflected on how stress affects us, especially during exams. It provided students with the tools we need to notice anxiety and other emotions when they arise, and how to best manage them.

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CHARITY WORK Movember

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A massive well done to all the staff and students who participated in Movember this year in aid of men’s mental health! Some fabulous moustaches and their inspirations can be found on the next page! Between such generous donations, along with a very successful quiz night, a WHOPPING €13,117 was raised for such and amazing cause! Well done and a heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and/or donated!! ❤

Students and staff were also tasked with walking or running 60 km in the month of November. Staff member Seán had a friendly wager with the 6th year students to see who could run more km’s than him in the month, with a chance of winning a Sport Direct voucher. Well done to 6th year student Jack Crowley who ran a whopping 165 km, beating Sean by 20 km 󰖦 In total, we clocked up over 1000 km as a school! Well done to everyone who got out and moved this November! 󰖦󰝇

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CHARITY WORK Movember

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Meet some of the fantastic staff and students who took part in Movember campaign for charity this November.

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CLASS OF THE MONTH Congrats to class 2 Fitzgerald who won class of the month for November. They were awarded with a cupcake decorating class and hot chocolate. This class has shown lots of maturity and positivity the past month and we are all very proud of you. Keep it up! 🌟

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CLUBS & SOCS. We are very fortunate here in LETSS to have so many wonderful clubs and societies up and running, such as…..

Golf

Songwriting

Tennis

Art Board Game

Basketball

Badminton

Green Schools

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Active Schools

Camogie Frisbee

Soccer Library

Robotics Gaelic Football

Creative Crafts

Debating European Parliament Ambassador Schools Maths

Athletics

Hurling

Video Game Rugby Girls Gaelic Football Chess Rowing

Multicultural 31

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EXTRA CURRICULAR/EVENTS The Proud Together Support Team and Committee has organised a very successful Stand Up Awareness week in late November. Events organised included informative workshops delivered by GOSHH, Karen from Mammies for Trans Rights, Lisa Daly Chairperson of Limerick Pride and Shane Hickey O’Mara (Limerick City and County Counsellor and Psychotherapist). A bake sale and a Rainbow Day also took place during Stand Up Awareness week to fundraise for LGBTQI+ books for our school library. Well done to all involved! 🌈

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We are also delighted and thrilled to announce that Limerick ETSS has won, for the second year in a row, the Belong To Stand Up Awareness week award in the category: 'Theme: Preventing Homophobic and Transphobic Bullying / Bi Cinealta'. We are absolutely honoured to receive this prestigious award from Belong To Services following our very successful Stand Up Awareness Week in November. 🏆 32

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EXTRA CURRICULAR/EVENTS U19’s Boys Basketball 🏀 Congrats to the U19’s boys basketball team who won the southwest regional final against Abbeyfeale. Hard luck to the U16’s boys basketball team who came up just a little short in the final. Both teams now move onto the All Ireland Series in the new year. Congratulations!

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EXTRA CURRICULAR/EVENTS Girls Gaelic Football

Our Junior Gaelic football girls have been working hard this term with a successful win over Gaelcholaiste Luimnigh in December in the University of Limerick. Well done girls, we look forward to getting stuck into training again in the new year and are excited to see what is to come!!

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EXTRA CURRICULAR/EVENTS PBL Official Project Launch with JJ Rhatigans We were delighted to welcome representatives from JJ Rhatigans for the official launch of a partnership project with them which will run with 5th year students studying Construction/Engineering, Computer Science, Physics and Accounting/Business. It's fantastic to use PBL as a way of bridging the gap between what students are learning in the classroom and the real working world. Thanks again also to Aaron Eisberg who was with us from New Tech High School Centre for Excellence in Napa, California, to help IN THIS ISSUE: design the project with teachers.

LETSS Radio were welcomed to document this fantastic event! Students worked hard to record as much content throughout the day as they possibly could. They are currently in their editing stage, stay tuned, the documentary is on it’s way!! 📻

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EXTRA CURRICULAR/EVENTS This December, Helen Campion from Breast Cancer Ireland spoke with Transition Year students about Breast Cancer awareness, early detection and current research. Followed by a Q&A and examination of the mannequin. Thanks so much to everyone involved and to Helen for facilitating!

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EXTRA CURRICULAR/EVENTS U19’s Boys Soccer ⚽ Our U19’s have had a busy campaign so far this year. We reached the last 16 of the FAI Munster cup, narrowly losing out to CBS Tralee on penalties with the scoreline 1-1 after full time and 2-2 after extra time. We defeated Crescent Comprehensive and Hazlewood College in the early stages of the competition. Unfortunately our hopes of qualifying in North Munster were slim with a recent loss to Newport but there is still a chance. The lads have put in a big effort so far this year and long may it continue after Christmas!

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EXTRA CURRICULAR/EVENTS National Learning Network Open Day

Well done to our group of senior cycle students who attended the National Learning Network Open Day in Raheen this November.

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They got the opportunity to hear about the different vocational courses on offer to them, speak to both trainers and current students, and tour their wonderful campus. A great day had by all!

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EXTRA CURRICULAR/EVENTS U17’s Boys Rugby 🏉 This term marked the beginning of our U17’s boys rugby team. Training weekly on our own pitch after school, with the great help from student coaching.Through wet and mucky conditions the lads spirits never dropped, culminating in a blitz in TUS. Losing one close game to Newcastle West and beating Newport.

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Training will continue in the new year, for all age groups. We look forward to it! 💪